We like type attacks: when the art director figures that using type as protagonist in the design is more interesting than using images. These three examples from The New York Times Magazine, The Atlantic and New York magazines prove the point.
Here is a approach that I have always recommended. Readers like it and type attacks can save the day when the story is too abstract for a single image to tell it best. Words do the job quickly and effectively. However, a type attack requires that the words sing. This is not about decoration, but about the impact of words, which can often be as strong and seductive as a good photo or illustration.
Take a look.
From The New York Times Magazine
From The Atlantic
From New York
More about type attacks
Type attacks can come to rescue of that front page
https://www.garciamedia.com/blog/type_attacks_can_come_to_rescue_of_that_front_page
El Mundo of Spain: when type tells the story best
https://garciamedia.com/blog/el_mundo_of_spain_when_type_tells_the_story_best
Strategies to create a front page with impact
Designing Monday's front page for Mas Por Mas
https://garciamedia.com/blog/designing_mondays_front_page_for_mas_por_mas